Blue Springs Enrichment New Member Registration: April 1st Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young but set an example for the believers...             I Timothy 4:12 Blue Springs Enrichment
 

FAQs



About BSE

Q:

What is BSE? Is it a private school or a church school?

A:

Blue Springs Enrichment, Corp. is a not for profit organization formed for the purpose of assisting parents with home school education for their children. BSE is not a private school or a church school, but a voluntary organization of likeminded parents and families pursuring home education for their children. BSE offers classes through the cooperative effort among several families to supplement their children’s home education by working together on subjects that are difficult to teach at home or best taught in group settings. We believe that we can accomplish more as a group by taking advantage of each other’s strengths and experiences. This is not forming a private school but applying homeschooling methods to a group larger than just one family. Parents are still the primary teachers for classes taught at BSE. To read more about our purpose and principle values, you may click ABOUT US.

Q:

Who manages BSE? 

A:

BSE is made up of a God-fearing Board of Directors. gifted teachers, and committed parents and students. The Leadership Team (Directors) is self-perpetuating, meaning the leaders serve until they step down and the existing team determines the replacement. The Directors work closely together to set policy, make decisions, and ensure that its purpose and principle values are upheld, and acts as a disciplinary board when necessary. Each administrator facilitates the concerns pertaining to their position, but decision-making power lies in the majority vote of the team. 

A fundamental rationale for a self-perpetuating board structure is its ability to provide continuity of purpose over a long period of time. Existing Directors select those new Directors who they believe are best able to preserve BSE’s core values and carry out its mission. All Directors are BSE members. We also seek Directors who are homeschoolers of more than one year and are well respected and active within the homeschool community.

Q:

When does BSE meet?

A:

BSE offers classes on a 28-week academic calendar beginning in August and ending in April. Classes are on Mondays from 9:30 AM to 1:40 PM. In addition to classes, BSE offers field trips and workshops that are available for members to participate in throughout the year. 

Q:

Where does BSE meet?

A:

BSE is located in Jackson County, Florida. The campus address will be available once membership has been approved. 

Q:

What does a typical day at BSE look like?

A:

There are three 55-minute class periods with students changing classes and teachers. (Some classes have the same teacher for multiple periods but this is typically for elementary age students.) We gather for Assembly where students lead members in the pledges (American flag, Christian flag and the Bible.) Members will then hear announcemnts and have a moment of prayer. A scheduled snack break and lunch break are also part of a typical BSE day. 

Membership

Q:

What are the requirements for joining BSE?

A:

  • You must agree with our Statement of Faith.
  • You must have at least one child 8 years old and in the 3rd grade or older.  Then younger siblings can then enroll in the classes offered to them.
  • Review the entire BSE Handbook, sign, and return the Acknowledgement of Rules and Policies
  • *Agree to pay the membership fee, class and textbook fees as well as any additional fees on time. 
  • Complete the criminal background check through the link on our website.  
  • Agree to volunteer either in a class or in another capacity weekly.
  • Attend New Member Orientation. Date: TBA
  • Complete and submit all registration forms along with the notarized Indemnification and Hold Harmless Agreement.

*All fees are non-refundable and non-transferable.

Q:

What are the benefits to joining BSE?

A:

MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS

1. Academic and enrichment classes best taught in a group setting. *additional fees apply

2. Access to BSE's secure member website. 

3. Access to our private Facebook page. 

4. Receive a discount code for HSLDA membership. 

5. BSE sponsored activities/events and field trips. *additional fees may apply

6. An official BSE membership card which can save you money on homeschool supplies, admission to parks, cell phone service and more. 

7. Register for classes before opening to the public.

8. Participate in workshops. *additional fees may apply

Q:

What is New Member Orientation? 

A:

New Member Orientation is to familarize newcomers with the ins and outs of our organization and to hear about the many areas where you can serve. You will also meet other new members, learn about member only benefits, become familar with policies and procedures and ensure that all necessary paperwork has been completed. Any returning member that has been gone for 2 years or more should also attend. 

Q:

Do you have an Open House? 

A:

BSE hosts a parent/student Open House the Thursday before we begin classes. We kindly request that all members attend. This is an opportunity for students to meet their teachers, see their classrooms, and meet fellow classmates. Parents will receive a packet with important information such as your students’ schedule, where you will be serving as well as other important information pertaining to the overall operating procedures of BSE.

Q:

Where can I view the registration forms?

A:

All pertinant forms are available to view and print via a link that can found when you click "Join". It is the responsibility of each member to print the forms, read, sign and return to BSE either at New Member Orientation, Open House or via email. 

 

Q:

Why does a criminal background check need to be submitted?

A:

This is a comprehensive screening process conducted to ensure the safety of all BSE members and visitors. Members are entrusted with educating and watching over our students as well as being around other adults. The criminal background check looks for past transgressions or criminal behavior that could represent a threat or risk to our children or other members of BSE. 

Q:

I've had a background check completed through my church or place of employment, can I just submit a copy of that one? 

A:

No. Our insurance requires that members use a specific company designed for ministries including but not limited to homeschool groups. 

Q:

Where can I find the link for the background check? 

A:

Once you have decided to become a member, you would click the Join tab located at the top of our website. This will take you to the request membership I-form were you will see a link to the background check. Click the link and follow the instructions given on the website. Payment is required upon completing the form. BSE does not make any money from this payment, nor do we determine the amount. 

Q:

Do you accecpt StepUp students?

A:

Yes. BSE will issue you, the parent, an invoice for you to submit to StepUp for reimbursment. 

*We are currently in the process of becoming officially StepUp approved. 

Fees

Q:

What are the fees for joining BSE?

A:

  • Annual membership is $330/family and is due upon requesting membership (new membership or returning members.) 
    • This fee includes the $270 family membership fee and the $60 family insurance fee.
  • Book and class fees vary depending on the classes students enroll in.
    • Book fees are due April 1st. 
    • Class fees are due May 1st. 
  • The criminal background check is approximately $18 and is required to be paid upon processing. 
  • Extra-curricular events/activities may have additional fees. This information is posted on our calendar along with additional information pertaining to planned event/activity. 

Any questions or concerns pertaining to fees should be sent to [email protected].

Q:

How much are the class fees? 

A:

Class fees vary depending on the class. The lowest class fee is $10 

Q:

How much are book fees? What if I already own the books, do I still have to pay the book fee? Do all classes have a book fee?

A:

Book fees vary depending upon the curriculum used for each class. Our teachers do their best to purchase books as reasonably priced as possible. They utilize coupons that may be offered, they look for sales and often times, when buying in bulk, they are able to save as well. 

Book fees are required to be paid in full even if you already own the book/s. 

Not all classes have a book fee. Some classes do not require books and some teachers will require the parent/student to supply the book. If the teacher requires the parent/student to supply the book, the teacher will also list the book details, including but not limited to which edition and from where you can purchase the book. 

Q:

What happens if I am unable to pay the membership fee, book or class fees on time?

A:

We suggest you review the payment schedule before becoming a member. Members who have an unpaid balance of any kind, will not be able to register for classes, books will not be purchased for your student and your student will not be allowed to attend classes or any BSE activities until the balance is paid in full. ALL FEES ARE NON-REFUNDALE AND NON-TRANSFERABLE. 

*Beginning September 2, 2023, any unpaid invoices will be charged a $35 late fee that will accrue montly until paid in full. 

Classes

Q:

If I sign up my children for BSE classes, does that mean that I don’t have to teach them at home? 

A:

No! The parent is still the primary teacher for classes taught at BSE. While our classes are designed to provide students with specialized instruction, BSE classes do not absolve the parents from their responsibility for their children’s education. Parents must ensure that their students keep up with assigned work each week as well as administer tests and determine final grades.

Q:

What is the schedule of classes?

A:

The student’s schedules are independent and will vary according to the classes chosen, however, our overall class schedule is as follows:

  • Once a week on Mondays from 9:30 AM to 1:40 PM.
  • Classes are broken up into three 55-minute class periods. 
  • A 28-week academic calendar beginning in August and ending in April. 
  • Various parent-volunteer teachers for each class period. 

Q:

How are classes filled? How can I guarantee my child will get into BSE?

A:

Families currently involved in BSE are given the chance to pre-register for the next year first, then registration is open to the public.

Q:

How are classes divided? Since we homeschool, how do I know what “grade” my child is in?

A:

Classes are divided by grade and/or age as of October 31st:

Class Grade  Age Range
High School 9th - 12th 14+
JR. High School 7th - 8th 12 to 14
Upper Elementary 5th - 6th 10 to 12
Middle Elementary 3rd - 4th 8 to 10
*Lower Elementary 1st - 2nd  6 to 8
*Primary Pathways K3-Kindergarten ^3 to 6
*Nursery   0-2

*These classes are reserved for siblings of students that are at least 8 years old/3rd grade only. 

^All Primary Pathway students must be potty-trained in order to enroll in these classes, or they will be required to remain in the nursery. 

Q:

My child is Junior High/Elementary age but does High School level work. Or my child is very interested in one of the High School classes. Why can’t he take a High School class?

A:

We request that students not be more than two years below their grade peers in age for many reasons. Most of our classes are limited by the space of the rooms and by the abilities of the teachers, who may be equipped to handle only a certain age-range with an expected maturity level. Furthermore, for many courses, particularly those offering *credit hours to high school students, separation by age is necessary based on the skills required; after all, we want upper-level courses to be challenging for high school students trying to earn high school credit. As a result, sometimes the skills required for a class outweigh the student’s interest in that class.

Additionally, when a student is far advanced in academics but young in age and maturity, he may not “fit” in most high school courses. An older student can effectively sit in on a class meant for a slightly younger age group, but a younger student may not work out as well in a class intended for older students. While accelerated learners may have an advantage in academics, they usually have not achieved the maturity to go with it. Even though they can handle algebra and read high school literature, they would not be able to discuss many of the broader topics that the other high school students are interested in discussing and studying.

Furthermore, although accelerated learners may be intellectual equals of teens, they are not equipped emotionally, physically, or in any other way to participate in the teens’ social events, and one of the benefits of BSE is making friends and developing a social life. Fellow classmates, who would be so much older and more mature, may not accept them as equals or friends. In other words, their emotional/philosophical level is still in elementary school, where their age places them. For their self-esteem alone, it would be better for them to be with their age peers.

This will not be the only chance your child has to take that interesting class. Most classes are taught again every 2-3 years, so those upper-level courses give your accelerated learner something to look forward to as they approach the junior high and high school years.

Please note that any student in the 7th grade through the 12th grade may earn high school credit if all required work has been completed.  See Definition of a Credit

Q:

How does my high schooler earn high school credit hours?

A:

Parents are still the primary teachers of their children. We would not presume to take that responsibility from the parents. To earn the high school credits suggested for each class, parents should not only ensure that their students complete all homework, but also discuss topics during the week with their children in preparation for further class discussion.

Q:

What exactly is done in the classes? Is it lecture format or projects, etc.?

A:

BSE classes are only one day a week and include but are not limited to lecture, experiment, performance, and introduction to subject matter. Junior high and high school students are expected to read and study during the week in preparation for what they do at BSE.

Elementary classes involve mostly hands-on activities as lecture and discussion would bore young children. Elementary classes are enrichment, and their activities supplement academics at home. Indeed, we consider elementary classes to be like field trips or clubs — fun, hands-on activities where the children learn without knowing they are learning! Nevertheless, we consider grades 3-5 to be “transition” classes as students move from elementary activities to junior high expectations of completing homework on time, being attentive when teachers talk, sitting still during class, working well with others in group projects, following directions, etc. Classes for grades 3-5 prepare students for junior high classes while still provide enrichment and fun activities.

Q:

Why do the high school classes have homework?

A:

Most high school classes have homework. To earn the high school credits suggested for each class, students must complete all homework. If not, they may be asked to go to study hall or to their parent. Habitually unprepared students will be suspended or expelled from the class.

It is virtually impossible to cover all necessary topics of a subject or even go in-depth on one issue in only one hour for only one day per week. No one expects high school students to retain everything in one day; instead, they are expected to work during the week to reinforce and prepare for what they do at BSE. Remember, one benefit of BSE is to serve as a basis for accountability. For students to earn the high school credit, parents should make sure high school assignments are completed during the week. Also, they should discuss topics during the week with their children in preparation for further class discussion, and they should assign any additional coursework they feel may be necessary to complete the subject. Students in grades 7th through 12th may earn a high school credit if all assignments have been completed and submitted to the teacher. 

Q:

What curriculum do you use? Do we have to use the same curriculum at home?

A:

Each teacher determines the books and materials to be used in her class. The class description will note if the student must purchase the book or if the teacher will provide handouts from the book, making purchase by students unnecessary. High school classes usually require the purchase of the book. On the other hand, all elementary classes are enrichment, so buying the book or using the same curriculum as the elementary class is not required and is not necessary.

Q:

What size are the classes?

A:

We intentionally keep our classes small. The teachers of each class set the limit on the number of students they would like in the classroom. Classes range from 5 to 20 students.

Q:

What do you mean when you say BSE is “enrichment only” for elementary grades? Why can’t they be more challenging, academic classes like the high school classes?

A:

Co-op classes are enrichment only for elementary classes for several reasons.

*  We meet only once a week. There is no way to teach all there is to know in one given subject in only one hour a week. That is the parent’s job, not ours. Teachers will give parents a schedule (syllabus) that they can follow at home if they want, but following it is not mandatory or even necessary.

*  Also, some students unschool while other children may have developmental delays while still others may be advanced – there is a wide range of abilities in the classroom, and we don’t want to leave anyone out. Our goal is not to conform to the majority and produce cookie-cutter students. That’s not what homeschooling is all about!

*  Plus, as one mom puts it, the attention span of a child is very short, so children need lessons and activities that will be hands-on and will keep them busy. In other words, we want them to learn without knowing that they’re learning! So we keep the lessons and handouts to a minimum, or better yet, we incorporate them into the activity.

*  It’s very difficult to find volunteer teachers for high school courses as they must prepare lesson plans and homework as well as correct homework. We can’t imagine asking that of elementary teachers as well.

*  Finally, different families use different curricula at home. We don’t know what they may be learning in that subject at home, but we can certainly find hands-on activities that will enrich anything they might possibly be doing at home.

Q:

What is a syllabus?

A:

Each teacher writes a class syllabus, which is simply a brief outline or list of what will be done each week. The syllabus supplies structure to the class and lets the teacher hand off to a helper or newcomer if she is absent. It also provides a guideline that parents can use to devise supplemental lessons at home and to ensure their children are prepared for class each week. This syllabus can also be placed in the student's homeschool portfolio for his/her annual evaluation. 

Q:

Are parents allowed to sit in on classes?

A:

Parents may sit in on any class (just understand that most classrooms are small and there may not be available seats). Also, parents are used as “helpers” in all classes, so each class usually has 2 or 3 adult teachers and/or helpers. We believe that more interaction between students and adults leads to a more relaxed relationship between both groups. Extra hands are always a blessing. Besides, homeschooled children are accustomed to having a parent close by to give quick responses to their questions, so more adults in the room means more attentive help for the students. If you request to be assigned to your child's class as a helper, this  should be indicated on the "Membership Request" I-form. 

Q:

What do I do if a class is full or waitlisted? 

A:

You can add your child to the waitlist, and if a spot becomes available, you will be contacted to see if you would still like for your child to enroll in that class. The student will then be added to the roster. However, if you decided your child no longer needs the class, the next student on the waitlist will then be contacted. If your child is added to the waitlist, you do not pay for the class. Payment is only made once the student has been added to the roster.  If the class is marked full, it is more than likely permanently closed. 

Q:

Are classes ever canceled?

A:

If Jackson County schools are closed due to bad weather, BSE will be canceled. If BSE must be canceled, members will be notified via email and through our private Facebook group as well as text message. 

Q:

What are some of the classes offered? I'd like to view the course options before becoming a member.

A:

Classes vary from year to year but BSE tries to offer a range of options for students to participate in. We try to always offer a history, science and language arts class, this could range from a writing class to a literature class. Others class options could be an art class, music appreciation, basic survival skills, and even PE. VIEW CLASSES HERE

Q:

What if I want to teach a class?

A:

Any parent can offer to teach a class, however, BSE does have some requirements to be a lead teacher. Those requirements are as follows:

  1. Must have been an on-campus member of BSE for at least one year.
  2. Must be in good-standing with BSE. 
    1. All financial obligations have been paid in full and on time.
    2. Regularly attended BSE weekly; not missed more than 3 days in the previous academic year.
    3. Willing to commit to one year in the classroom.

Q:

Are your high school courses accredited? 

A:

No. BSE does not offer accredited courses. In order for BSE to offer accredited courses, we would be required to go through a review process by an accrediting organization that judges every aspect of the education that is offered. We would be required to meet certain standards set forth by a third-party. 

If your student is planning to attend college and needs accredited couses, we suggest either dual enrollement at a local college or you may visit our Homeschool Resources tab for more information. 

Q:

Do you offer a tutoring service? 

A:

BSE has a math tutor on campus to help any current BSE student in grades 4th through 12th. There is a fee for this service. Details are available to members under "Sign-Ups." 

Extra-Curricular

Q:

Do you offer a prom?

A:

Yes, BSE sponsors an annual prom. Locations and dates are subject to change and details are given closer to the event by the event coordinatiors. Students must be 14 years of age and in the 9th grade by date of prom in order to attend.  This event is open to all homeschoolers who purchase a ticket. *Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable. 

Q:

Do you have a high school graduation?

A:

Yes. The parents of BSE that have graduating seniors are welcome to organize and plan a graduation ceramony. 

Q:

Do you offer field trips?

A:

Yes. BSE has a field trip planning committee that organizes monthly field trips that are open to members of all ages. 

Q:

What are workshops?

A:

Workshops are short, educational programs that teach and introduce hands-on, practical skills, techniques, or ideas which can then be used in the students' every day lives. This supplemental form of teaching enhances the student's education and real-world experience. Examples of a workshop could be a self-defense class, learning about wild, edible plants, or how to write an essay. Workshops are offered on another day of the week (not a BSE day) and can be a one-time activity or offered over the course of several dates. 

Additonal FAQs

Q:

Is BSE a member of HSLDA?

A:

Yes, we are current members of HSLDA. You can view their website by clicking here.

Q:

What if I work full-time and cannot be at BSE weekly? Do you offer "off-campus" memberership?

A:

An off-campus member is a parent who does not attend BSE regularly, typically due to a work schedule or a medical issue. This type of membership is only offered to those members of high school students (grades 7th - 12th) and must be approved by the Leadership Team. In addition to the $330 membership fee, and varying class and book fees, the off-campus fee is $350.  For further questions regarding this option, please email [email protected]

Q:

Can I join BSE without enrolling in classes?

A:

Yes. Your membership allows you full access to all that BSE offers with the exception of classes. Membership fees remain the same.

JOIN NOW

Q:

Do you accommodate children with special needs or learning differences?

A:

The terms “special needs” and “learning differences” cover a vast array of diagnoses. Children with special needs may have mild learning differences or profound mental challenges; food allergies or terminal illness; developmental delays that catch up quickly or remain entrenched; occasional panic attacks or serious psychiatric problems. Because most parent-teachers are not equipped to teach or maintain discipline in classrooms containing children with severe learning differences, please prayerfully consider if BSE is right for your special needs child before enrolling. Depending on the parent, teacher, and Leadership Team’s assessment of a child’s ability to participate in classes with minimal disruption to the learning process, it may be necessary for the parent of any child to be assigned as a helper or teacher in some or all of their child’s classes.

Q:

Can my family participate in BSE once class registration is closed? 

A:

Once class registration is closed, families requesting membership can still participate in all that BSE offers with the exception of classes. You will however, have the option to register for classes for the following academic year before opening to the public. 

Q:

Do you have a dress code?

A:

Standard Dress Code Requirements: All clothing must be properly sized, modest and unrevealing in cut, fit and texture. Modesty is expected at all times at any school event or function including any co/extra-curricular activities. Clothing should not draw undue attention. The purpose of our dress code is to encourage modest, neat, clean and appropriate dress to promote a positive learning enviroment. John 15:19  "If you belonged to the world, it would love to have you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world." 

  • Skirts, dresses and shorts should be modest in length; using the fingertip rule - no article of clothing should be shorter than the fingertip (middle finger.) 
  • Hats and hoods are not permitted in the BSE/church building. 
  • Shirt logos should not contain profanity, violence, drugs, alcohol, secular bands/musicians or social/political agendas.
  • Fabric should not be sheer, see-through or anything similar. 
  • No cleavage. 
  • No visible undergarments.
  • Shirts should be long enough to cover the midriff, even when arms raised, no crop-tops.
  • No pajamas.
  • No low-back, strapless, or halter-top (reveals the midriff) style shirts or dresses. 

Q:

What if we must quit BSE unexpectedly?

A:

Please understand that BSE will not “fit” every family, so we ask you to prayerfully consider your decision to join before you sign up. Perhaps read the article “12 Reasons NOT to Join BSE” before you pre-register because by enrolling your children you are committing to participating for the full year and fees are non-refundable. When even just one parent is late or absent or quits, it puts a heavier burden on the rest of us, and consequently, the children suffer.

Nevertheless, we understand that family comes first in a crisis. If an unexpected emergency, such as moving, serious illness, or death in the family, has made it impossible for you to continue at BSE, please go to the Leadership Team for prayer and help. If necessary, ask your team teachers or helpers to take over your classes temporarily and make arrangements to give them class fees, supplies, and materials, if any.

Q:

What is the difference between a teacher and a helper?

A:

Most classes have at least one teacher and one helper, but they are two different jobs. A teacher plans and teaches the class, including writing a description, setting fees, buying materials, organizing lessons and activities, and implementing them each week. 

A helper assists the teacher during class time and fills in when the teacher is absent. A helper can volunteer for a class, and we will try our best to accommodate the request. However, we cannot guarantee that a helper will be in the class specified, especially if there is a need in another class.

Q:

What do you mean when you say we must volunteer or “work” at BSE? Can I specify where I want to volunteer?

A:

BSE is truly a cooperative effort. We need every participating parent to keep BSE functioning smoothly. By registering your children, you agree to work during their class periods as a teacher, a teacher’s helper or on the set-up or clean-up crew, with at least one period as your break time. You may request where you would like to serve when completing the Membership Request I-form. 

Q:

Do you have a nursery?

A:

Yes, we do provide a nursery.  Any families with children enrolled with BSE, can register their infant/toddler with our parent led nursery. Please note that should you enroll a child in the nursery, you will be required to volunteer in the nursery for at least one class period. 

 

Q:

What if my child has a food allergy?

A:

We have no control over what individual families bring for lunch. When we are alerted to a food allergy situation, the most we can do is ask children and parents to wash their hands with soap and water after eating. For group meals and potlucks we do our best to inform BSE members of the allergy risk and label shared dishes to the best of our ability. Otherwise, parents and children are responsible for monitoring their own food allergies and sensitivities. If your child has a serious allergy, please make sure you carry an Epi Pen with you at all times in the event your child is exposed. Also, please notify your child’s teachers in case food is planned for a class activity.

Q:

Do you have a lunch break?

A:

BSE does have a lunch break, but BSE does not provide lunch. Most families bring lunch or purchase from a local restaurant, and eat on campus where we have access to a kitchen with a microwave. 

Q:

Can we be involved in BSE and still participate in another co-op or homeschool support group? 

A:

This is completely up to you. Generally, we recommend that if your high school student attends another co-op, you probably should not register for BSE, due to the time and expense. However, some students and families have been able to handle two co-ops successfully, so it is up to you to decide.